Strength, durability, cost and outward visibility are some of the considerations to keep in mind when choosing mesh material. The right mesh material will depend on which factors matter more to you.
Fiberglass is one of the most commonly used mesh materials for insect screens. The reason for its popularity is simple – it is inexpensive and offers good outward visibility. Fiberglass is also lightweight, flexible and corrosion-resistant. Some manufacturers may coat the fiberglass with PVC to improve its strength.
The greatest disadvantage of fiberglass is that it’s not as durable as other mesh materials. It is prone to tearing/fraying at the edges and tends to stretch over time. When exposed to strong sunlight for long periods of time, its strength will deteriorate and discolouration may also occur.
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Polyester mesh has been gaining popularity as an alternative to fiberglass mesh. It is flexible, tear-resistant and less prone to sagging, making it stronger and more durable. It is usually also coated with vinyl, which serves as an additional protective barrier. Polyester mesh coated with a thicker layer of vinyl is often used in pet screens. The thick vinyl coating grants increased resistance to abrasions, which makes it difficult for pets to damage the screen.
A downside of polyester mesh is that the thick coating results in a decrease in outward visibility. It is also more expensive than fiberglass. And if you’re opting for vinyl-coated polyester, you’ll have to fork out much more.
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Polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) are mesh materials that have caught on in recent years. Both plastics are used in a wide variety of applications and are similar in physical properties. When used to make screen mesh, they are commonly available as PE mesh, PP mesh or PE + PP mesh (made with a combination of PE and PP).
Both PE and PP are strong fabrics that are tear-resistant and less prone to sagging. PE is a good electrical insulator and is slightly sturdier than PP. Meanwhile, PP has a higher chemical resistance and is more lightweight. Both are mildew-resistant and offer good outward visibility. Like the polyester mesh, most PE/PP mesh sold are coated to further enhance their strength and durability. Coated PE/PP mesh is also UV-resistant and waterproof.
While PE/PP mesh has many strengths, one drawback is that they are not suitable for pet screens. The coating on PE/PP mesh is not as thick, which makes it less resistant against scratches and damage caused by pets. PE/PP mesh is also more expensive than fiberglass mesh.
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Another material used to make screen mesh is aluminium. While popular in countries such as Australia and the USA, aluminium mesh is rarely seen in Singapore. Aluminium mesh offers superior strength and durability as well as excellent outward visibility. It cannot be torn and its rigidity means you won’t have to worry about the screen sagging. The mesh often comes in a protective finish that is corrosion-resistant.
However, as you may have expected, aluminium mesh is very expensive. It may also dent/crease upon heavy impact.
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Finally, we have the stainless steel mesh. Stainless steel is the strongest and most durable mesh material available. It is rust- and corrosion-resistant, offers excellent outward visibility and will not stretch or sag. Other than its natural colour, the mesh may also be powder-coated for a black finish which further improves visibility.
The main disadvantage of using stainless steel mesh is the cost. It is easily the most expensive mesh of the lot due to the premium material used. Additionally, the mesh may also dent or kink upon heavy impact.
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